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Hybrid WDM-MDM transmitter with an integrated Si modulator array and a micro-resonator comb source
Optics Express
|November 23, 2021
Summary
This study presents a silicon photonic transmitter combining wavelength and mode division multiplexing, achieving 150 Gb/s data rates. This integrated approach advances high-capacity optical communication systems.
Area of Science:
- Photonics
- Optical Communications
- Integrated Optics
Background:
- Optical communication systems face increasing demand for higher data rates.
- Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) and Mode Division Multiplexing (MDM) are key technologies for increasing optical transmission capacity.
- Silicon photonics offers a platform for dense integration of optical components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a multi-channel silicon photonic transmitter.
- To integrate Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) and Mode Division Multiplexing (MDM) on a single chip.
- To achieve high data rates using a compact optical comb source and silicon modulators.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a silicon nitride (Si3N4) Kerr frequency comb as the light source.
- Employed silicon electro-optic modulators for optical modulation.
- Integrated three wavelengths and two modes for multiplexing.
Main Results:
- Achieved a multi-channel silicon photonic transmitter.
- Demonstrated the combined use of WDM and MDM.
- Reached an accumulated data rate of 150 Gb/s.
Conclusions:
- The dense integration of WDM and MDM components with a compact optical comb source is feasible.
- This technology opens new avenues for future high-capacity multi-dimensional optical transmission.
- The developed transmitter represents a significant step towards next-generation optical networks.
